NSU or NGU

What is NSU/NGU?

NSU/NGU (Non Specific or Non Gonococcal Urethritis) is an inflammation of the urethra (the tube in your penis that carries the urine)

How do you catch NSU/NGU?

Inflammation of the urethra can be caused by many different factors, most commonly the Chlamydia bacteria but can also be the result of any number of sexually transmitted bacteria. It may sound a bit peculiar, but sometimes NSU is called non-gonococcal urethritis (NGU) because the inflammation is not caused by gonorrhoea.

In some situations the inflammation/irritation can be the result hygiene products such as shower gels and deodorants. NSU/NGU can also be the result of damage to the urethra (which could be the result of extended or rigorous sexual activity).

How will I know?

Symptoms may not always be present but may include; a burning/irritation or tickle inside the urethra, often worse when urinating. Some other guys may get a discharge or fluid from the end of the penis which can be yellow, green or clear in colour.

Testing and treatment

Testing usually entails taking a small swab of the site along with a urine sample. NSU/NGU is usually treated with antibiotics, make sure you also get your partners treated and refrain from any sex for 1 week after taking the medication to prevent reinfection.

Protecting myself

Using condoms and water-based lube can reduce the risk of transmitting the infections that cause NSU/NGU.

Where can I test?

If you think you have symptoms of NSU/NGU get it checked out a a GUM Clinic

Related Links

We offer tailored services for men who have sex with men. Whatever you need to look after your sexual health, you're sure to find it here.

Pitstop Clinic

Pitstop Clinic is a dedicated clinic for Gay & Bisexual Men, Trans people and Lesbian women, who don't have symptoms and would like to test for a range of STI's. This is a face-to-face testing service, with LGBT staff, that runs out of our Woolwich offices and we have a nurse-led clinic once a week on a Wednesday evening. These services are open to you, regardless of where you live.

Free Condoms

If you are a Greenwich resident you can order free condoms to get delivered to your door. As many as 2 packs per month. You can even set up a repeat order to have them delivered every month.

Order STI Kits

If you live in Greenwich you can order a home STI testing kit to be delivered to your door completely free of charge. Simply take your tests and post it back to us and we will text you your results.

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